Bonnet c. 1936

This bonnet was designed by Herbert Marsh, though we don’t know exactly when. The design is rendered in pencil and watercolor, both traditional art materials. But the subject matter – a mass-produced object, likely made in a factory – gives us a clue about Marsh’s interest in the applied arts. Consider how the materials of the drawing influence its appearance. The watercolor allows for a soft, almost blurry effect, which contrasts nicely with the sharp, precise lines of the pencil. Marsh would likely have been trained in technical drawing, perhaps for industrial applications. The bonnet itself has a complex shape, with its pleated form and trailing ribbons. All this would have been made possible by sewing machines and other industrial technologies that accelerated clothing production. So, this drawing is more than just a pretty picture. It's a glimpse into a world where art, design, and industry are all intertwined. It asks us to consider the labor and skill involved in making everyday objects, and to appreciate the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places.